Job Description

Overview

Appleton Finn is proud to be partnering with a leading heavy civil general contractor in Los Angeles to appoint a Vice President of Operations. This is a critical executive leadership role within a well-established contractor known for delivering complex infrastructure projects across Southern California.

Our client specializes in all aspects of heavy civil construction — including earthwork, underground utilities, transportation infrastructure (Caltrans), concrete structures, and water/wastewater systems. As they continue to expand their project portfolio and regional footprint, they are looking for an operations leader with a proven track record in driving performance, safety, and execution across multiple project teams.

The Role

The Vice President of Operations will be responsible for overseeing all field and project operations across the business. Reporting directly to the President, this individual will lead a team of project managers, superintendents, and support staff, ensuring successful delivery across a diverse range of civil infrastructure projects.

This role demands a hands-on leader who can manage both the strategic and day-to-day aspects of construction operations — someone who brings deep industry knowledge, operational discipline, and strong leadership capabilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide executive oversight across all construction operations, ensuring safety, quality, schedule, and profitability targets are consistently met.
• Lead and mentor project management and field teams across multiple active job sites.
• Develop and implement operational strategies, systems, and KPIs to drive performance and scalability.
• Collaborate with preconstruction, estimating, and executive teams to align operational delivery with business goals.
• Oversee risk management, compliance, and safety standards across all projects.
• Maintain strong relationships with clients, municipalities, subcontractors, and other external partners.
• Contribute to strategic growth planning and support business development efforts as needed.

What We're Looking For

• 15+ years of experience in heavy civil construction, with a significant portion in a senior operational leadership capacity.
• Strong background in managing complex public and private sector infrastructure projects — including roads, bridges, utilities, and water systems.
• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or related field; advanced qualifications are a plus.
• Proven ability to lead large project teams and deliver work safely, on time, and within budget.
• Strong commercial awareness with experience managing project financials and company-level P&L responsibility.
• A collaborative, solutions-oriented leadership style with excellent communication and decision-making skills.
• Familiarity with Caltrans, LA Metro, LADWP, and other regional agency requirements is highly desirable.

Package & Benefits

• Executive-level salary (275k-350k DOE), annual bonus structure + company shares.
• Vehicle allowance or company vehicle
• Full medical, dental, vision, and 401(k) benefits
• Paid time off and holidays
• Long-term growth opportunity with an industry-leading contractor

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